Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
Introducing the vibrant and spicy Arugula - Dragon's Fire, a standout choice for any culinary enthusiast seeking to add a peppery kick to their dishes. This unique arugula variety is known for its strikingly deep green leaves that mature to reveal a fiery red veining, creating a stunning visual contrast. With a growth habit that reaches up to 12 inches in height, Dragon's Fire is as eye-catching in the garden as it is on the plate.
Dragon's Fire arugula boasts a quick maturity rate, often ready for harvest in as little as 30 days. Its leaves are tender yet robust, offering a crisp texture and a bold, nutty flavor with a hint of spice that intensifies as the plant matures. Ideal for cool-season planting, this arugula thrives in well-drained soil under full sun, rewarding gardeners with continuous harvests throughout the season.
In the kitchen, Dragon's Fire arugula is a versatile ingredient, perfect for adding a zesty punch to salads, sandwiches, and gourmet pizzas. Its distinct flavor profile pairs beautifully with citrus and creamy dressings, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Embrace the spicy allure of Dragon's Fire and elevate your culinary creations with this exceptional arugula variety.
How to Sow and Plant — Dragon’s Fire Arugula
1. Choosing the Right Location
Light Requirements:
Dragon’s Fire Arugula grows best in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 4–6 hours of light daily, but protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent early bolting.
Soil Requirements:
Select well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0–7.0. Work in organic matter such as compost or aged manure before sowing for healthy leaf growth and vivid color.
Soil Preparation Tip:
Loosen soil to a depth of 6–8 inches and mix in 2–3 inches of compost. For raised beds or containers, use high-quality potting mix blended with perlite or sand to improve drainage.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors (Optional)
Timing:
Start seeds 4–6 weeks before the last frost date if you want early transplants or a head start on the season.
Containers and Medium:
Use shallow trays or biodegradable pots filled with light, fine-textured seed-starting mix. Keep soil moist but never soggy.
Sowing Depth:
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, lightly cover with soil, and mist gently.
Germination Conditions:
Seeds sprout quickly in 5–7 days at 60–70°F (16–21°C). Maintain gentle airflow and bright indirect light once germinated to prevent damping off.
3. Direct Sowing Outdoors
Timing:
Direct sow as soon as soil can be worked in early spring, typically 3–4 weeks before the last frost. Dragon’s Fire also performs beautifully in late-summer to fall sowings, producing deep color in cool weather.
Sowing Depth:
Plant seeds ¼ inch deep, firming soil lightly. Keep consistently moist until seedlings emerge.
Spacing:
Thin seedlings to 4–6 inches apart for mature leaves.
For baby greens, sow densely and harvest early.
Maintain 10–12 inches between rows for airflow and access.
4. Transplanting Seedlings
Timing:
Transplant when seedlings reach 2–3 true leaves, usually at 2–3 weeks old. Handle gently to avoid root disturbance.
Planting Depth:
Set transplants at the same soil depth they were grown in trays. Press soil lightly around the base and water thoroughly after planting.
Hardening Off:
Before transplanting, harden off seedlings for 5–7 days by placing them outdoors gradually—start with filtered light and increase exposure daily.
5. Watering and Moisture Management
Initial Watering:
Keep the top layer of soil consistently moist until seedlings are well established. Light daily watering may be needed in warm or windy conditions.
Ongoing Watering:
After establishment, water deeply 2–3 times per week, ensuring even moisture. Irregular watering can toughen leaves and reduce flavor.
Mulching:
Apply 1–2 inches of straw, leaf mold, or compost mulch once seedlings take hold. This helps regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.
6. Temperature and Climate Conditions
Dragon’s Fire Arugula prefers cool to mild temperatures (45–70°F / 7–21°C) for best flavor and color. Warm weather deepens leaf pigment but can also increase heat in flavor.
In hot climates, sow in partial shade or under taller crops like corn or sunflowers to reduce stress and delay bolting.
Fall sowings deliver the richest color and fullest flavor.
7. Fertility and Soil Feeding
Before sowing, blend in a balanced organic fertilizer (5-5-5) or composted manure.
Avoid high nitrogen levels, which promote lush growth but milder flavor and weaker pigmentation.
Side-dress midseason with compost tea or liquid kelp if leaves begin to pale.
8. Succession Sowing for Continuous Harvest
For a steady supply, sow new rows every 2–3 weeks through spring and again in late summer. Harvest outer leaves often to encourage new inner growth.
9. Organic Pest Prevention at Planting
Protect seedlings from flea beetles and aphids using floating row covers during the first few weeks. Maintain weed-free, well-ventilated beds to discourage pests and fungal issues.
Companion Planting Tip:
Grow near lettuce, beets, or carrots for natural pest balance. Avoid planting near cabbage or mustard crops, which share similar pests.
Dragon’s Fire Arugula rewards careful planting with vibrant, red-veined leaves that bring both beauty and bold flavor to the table—a gardener’s statement green that burns bright in every season.
How to Grow – Arugula ‘Dragon’s Fire’ (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa)
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist to preserve tenderness and prevent bitterness. Provide 1 inch of water per week, adjusting for temperature and rainfall.
Water deeply at the base using a soaker hose or drip line to maintain even soil moisture and reduce leaf spotting.
Inconsistent watering can cause tough leaves and spur premature bolting.
Tip: Light, frequent watering during hot spells keeps ‘Dragon’s Fire’ leaves vibrant, crisp, and flavorful.
Fertilizing
Before planting, mix 2–3 inches of compost or well-aged manure into the topsoil for a gentle nutrient foundation.
Feed every 3–4 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer (5-5-5 or 4-4-4) or compost tea to sustain steady growth. Avoid overfertilizing—excess nitrogen can produce overly mild leaves and reduce leaf color intensity.
Tip: A midseason compost top-dress keeps growth lush without promoting excessive leaf size or bitterness.
Weeding & Mulching
Weed frequently but carefully to avoid disturbing shallow roots.
Apply 1–2 inches of organic mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or fine compost) around plants once established. This maintains moisture, suppresses weeds, and cools the soil—vital for summer successions.
Tip: Mulch also protects foliage from soil splash, reducing the risk of fungal leaf spots after rain or watering.
Sun & Heat Management
‘Dragon’s Fire’ prefers full sun in cool weather and partial shade during summer heat.
Ideal growing temperatures range from 45–75°F (7–24°C).
Use shade cloth (30–40%) to protect plants during hot periods or grow in a cooler microclimate on the north or east side of taller crops.
Tip: For continuous harvests, sow every 2–3 weeks and switch to shaded beds as temperatures climb.
Spacing & Growth Pattern
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, spacing plants 6 inches apart in rows 10–12 inches apart.
Denser plantings yield smaller baby leaves; wider spacing encourages fuller growth and deeper color in mature leaves.
Tip: Succession-sowing ensures a consistent harvest while keeping flavor balanced and leaves tender.
Ecological Interplanting (Companion Strategy)
Companions: Pair with carrots, radishes, or beets to make efficient use of space.
Beneficial attractors: Nearby herbs such as dill, chamomile, and coriander draw pollinators and predatory insects that control pests.
Pest deterrents: Chives, mint, and thyme naturally repel flea beetles and aphids.
Rotation: Rotate out of Brassica family crops every year to prevent pest buildup.
Tip: Mixed plantings with lettuce or spinach extend harvest time and deter pest concentration.
Container Growing
Ideal for container or raised bed cultivation. Use pots 6–8 inches deep with loose, fertile soil rich in organic matter.
Water daily in warm weather to maintain steady moisture, and feed every 2–3 weeks with diluted organic fertilizer.
Tip: Harvest frequently to encourage new tender leaves and slow bolting in confined spaces.
Season Extension
‘Dragon’s Fire’ thrives in spring and fall and tolerates light frost with protection.
Use floating row covers or cold frames to extend harvests. In warm regions, provide partial shade and moisture retention through mulch to prolong summer production.
Tip: In cooler zones, late-summer sowings produce the richest color and flavor as nights cool.
Harvest young leaves at 2–3 inches for a milder, nutty flavor, or wait until 4–6 inches for the characteristic peppery bite that defines ‘Dragon’s Fire.’ Cut outer leaves first to encourage continuous regrowth, leaving the crown intact. Regular harvesting every few days prevents plants from bolting and keeps flavor balanced.
Tip: For the most vivid leaf coloration and sharpest taste, harvest early in the morning when leaves are crisp and essential oils are at their peak.
Flavor & Culinary Notes
‘Dragon’s Fire’ stands out with its fiery, peppery flavor and deep green leaves veined with red or purple highlights, giving dishes a striking visual flair. The taste intensifies as plants mature, offering a bold kick reminiscent of mustard greens or wild rocket.
Use fresh in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish to add color and spice. Light sautéing or tossing into pasta just before serving mellows the heat and enhances its nutty undertones.
Tip: Pair with sweet or acidic ingredients—like citrus, beets, or balsamic glaze—to balance its sharp, spicy notes.
Handling & Storage
Store harvested leaves in a perforated plastic bag or container with a damp paper towel to maintain humidity. Refrigerate immediately and consume within 5–6 days for peak freshness. Avoid washing until just before use.
Wilted leaves can be revived by soaking in ice water for several minutes.
Tip: For longer storage, lightly wrap unwashed leaves in a breathable cloth and keep in the crisper drawer.
Growing & Maintenance
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade; light shade prolongs harvest in summer.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist—fluctuations in moisture cause bitterness and accelerate flowering.
Feeding: Moderate feeders; enrich beds with compost or aged manure prior to planting. Avoid excessive nitrogen which encourages lush, weak growth.
Pruning: Remove flower stalks promptly to extend leaf production.
Tip: Sow new successions every 2–3 weeks to maintain a steady supply of tender, vibrant leaves.
Seed Saving
Allow several healthy plants to flower and form seed pods. When pods turn pale brown and dry, cut the stems, bundle, and hang upside down in a well-ventilated area. Once fully dry, thresh gently to release seeds, then winnow and store in labeled envelopes or jars in a cool, dark location. Seeds remain viable for 4–5 years.
Tip: To keep ‘Dragon’s Fire’ genetically pure, isolate by 500 feet from other arugula varieties or bag flower heads.
Container Tips
Grow in containers at least 8 inches deep with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Keep evenly moist, especially during hot spells. Pinch off flower buds early to focus energy on leafy growth.
Ideal for patios, raised beds, and balcony gardens where color and fragrance add ornamental appeal.
Tip: Move pots to a shadier location during midsummer to slow bolting and retain leaf tenderness.
Companion Planting
Thrives alongside onions, carrots, dill, and mint. Its spicy aroma deters aphids and flea beetles. Avoid planting with other Brassicas to reduce shared pest risks and nutrient competition.
Attract beneficial predators by interplanting with calendula or sweet alyssum.
Tip: Plant near herbs like cilantro or parsley—these attract beneficial insects that keep aphid populations under control.
Extended Season Care
‘Dragon’s Fire’ performs best in cool weather (45–70°F / 7–21°C) and tolerates light frost. Extend the season with row covers or cold frames in early spring or late fall. In regions with mild winters, mulch lightly to overwinter and regrow in spring.
Tip: Allow late-season plants to self-seed for a natural, recurring crop that reappears each spring.
Common Pests & Problems — 'Dragon's Fire' Arugula (Eruca vesicaria)Insects & MitesFlea Beetles (small holes in leaves, shot-hole appearance)Controls: Use floating row covers to protect young plants. Apply diatomaceous earth around seedlings. Introduce beneficial nematodes to target larvae in the soil. Rotate crops to disrupt life cycles.Cabbage Loopers (chewed leaves, green caterpillars)Controls: Handpick caterpillars in small infestations. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as a biological control. Encourage natural predators like birds and parasitic wasps by planting diverse flowering plants nearby.DiseasesDowny Mildew (yellow patches on leaves, white fungal growth on undersides)Controls: Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants properly. Water at the base to keep foliage dry. Apply copper-based fungicides as a preventive measure. Rotate crops to reduce pathogen buildup.Leaf Spot (dark spots on leaves, potential leaf drop)Controls: Remove and destroy infected leaves. Avoid overhead watering to reduce leaf wetness. Apply neem oil or a sulfur-based fungicide at the first sign of disease. Maintain proper plant nutrition to enhance resistance.Physiological & Environmental IssuesBolting (premature flowering, bitter leaves)Controls: Plant in cooler weather to avoid stress-induced bolting. Mulch to keep soil temperatures consistent. Choose bolt-resistant varieties for warmer climates. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage vegetative growth.Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist- Regularly inspect plants for signs of insect damage or disease.- Implement crop rotation and companion planting strategies.- Maintain optimal spacing and watering practices to reduce stress.- Introduce beneficial insects and use organic controls as needed.- Remove debris and weeds that can harbor pests and diseases.
Q: What makes Dragon’s Fire arugula special?
A: ‘Dragon’s Fire’ is a visually stunning arugula variety known for its dark, deeply serrated leaves streaked with crimson veins and a spicy, smoky flavor. It combines bold taste with ornamental beauty, making it as striking in the garden as it is on the plate.
Q: Is Dragon’s Fire a traditional arugula or a hybrid?
A: It’s an open-pollinated selection of Eruca vesicaria bred from heirloom strains for enhanced color and flavor intensity—fully true to type and ideal for seed saving.
Q: How spicy is Dragon’s Fire compared to other arugulas?
A: Medium-hot with a pleasant burn and nutty undertone—stronger than ‘Astro’ or ‘Slow Bolt,’ but not as fiery as ‘Wasabi.’ Its spice mellows when cooked or lightly dressed.
Q: How long does it take to mature?
A: ‘Dragon’s Fire’ grows quickly, reaching baby-leaf harvest in 20–25 days and full maturity around 35–40 days. Regular cutting prolongs leaf production and flavor quality.
Q: What conditions bring out its best color?
A: Cooler weather (below 70°F / 21°C) enhances red pigmentation and crisp texture. High light intensity also deepens leaf color, especially under full sun.
Q: Does it tolerate heat well?
A: Moderately. While bred for resilience, hot weather accelerates bolting. Provide partial shade and steady watering in midsummer to maintain quality.
Q: What type of soil is best?
A: Loamy, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy fertilization, which can wash out color and reduce flavor intensity.
Q: Can Dragon’s Fire be grown in containers or raised beds?
A: Absolutely. It’s well-suited for containers 6–8 inches deep. Consistent moisture and good airflow prevent stress that leads to early flowering.
Q: How do I harvest Dragon’s Fire arugula?
A: Cut the outer leaves when 3–5 inches long or harvest whole plants by trimming just above the soil. Frequent harvesting encourages new, tender regrowth.
Q: What are its best culinary uses?
A: Ideal for colorful salads, pizza toppings, sandwiches, or as a garnish for roasted meats and root vegetables. Its crimson hues and peppery heat elevate any presentation.
History & Culture — Arugula Seeds - Dragon’s Fire (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa)
Arugula ‘Dragon’s Fire’ emerges from a long legacy of Mediterranean greens, descended from the wild Eruca species cultivated since Roman times. This modern cultivar was bred for both visual allure and fiery taste—its dark, serrated leaves streaked with red veins evoke the mythic intensity its name suggests. The crimson pigmentation comes from elevated anthocyanins, a group of plant compounds associated with resilience to sun and stress, giving this arugula both beauty and strength in the garden.
Historically, arugula was sown among grain fields throughout Southern Europe and Western Asia, where it served as both food and medicine. Ancient Greeks and Romans regarded it as a plant of vigor, eaten to stimulate appetite and vitality. Over centuries, regional farmers selected for distinct qualities—spice, tenderness, and adaptability—until arugula evolved from a weedy wild herb into a beloved salad green across cultures.
‘Dragon’s Fire’ stands as a symbolic descendant of that evolution—a variety that embodies the fusion of old-world pungency with contemporary aesthetic breeding. Its appearance mirrors the fire of its flavor, delivering that unmistakable peppery kick cherished in rustic cuisines from Tuscany to the Levant.
To cultivate ‘Dragon’s Fire’ is to honor the ancient bond between humans and flavor itself—a relationship as enduring as the Mediterranean sun and as bold as the scarlet veins that course through its leaves.
Seed Saving — Dragon’s Fire Arugula (Eruca sativa)
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving
Choose plants with bold red veining, spicy flavor, and consistent leaf shape—the signature traits of Dragon’s Fire. This open-pollinated arugula is largely self-pollinating but can cross with nearby arugulas and wild mustards, so maintain 800 feet or more of isolation between different varieties.
Mark 10–15 of the strongest plants early in the season for observation. Prioritize those that resist premature bolting and maintain tender leaves even under moderate heat. Avoid plants that develop bitterness or yellowing too quickly.
2. Harvesting Seeds
Allow plants to flower and form slender seed pods (siliques). When the pods turn light tan and dry but before they split, cut whole seed stalks. Hang them upside down in a dry, shaded, airy location for 5–7 days to complete curing.
Handle gently to prevent pod shattering and seed loss.
3. Threshing and Cleaning
Once fully dry, crush pods between your hands or with light pressure in a cloth bag. Separate seeds from chaff using a fine sieve or winnow in a light breeze.
For extra sanitation, you may rinse briefly in chamomile tea or soak for 5 minutes in 3% hydrogen peroxide before drying again completely.
4. Drying Seeds
Spread seeds in a single layer on parchment, screen, or ceramic surface. Dry for 7–10 days at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Seeds are ready for storage when they feel hard and snap under pressure.
5. Storing Seeds
Store in airtight glass jars or paper envelopes with a desiccant such as silica gel or baked rice. Keep in a cool, dark, and dry location (optimal 35–45°F / 1–7°C). Properly dried and stored seeds remain viable for 4–6 years.
Label containers with variety name, year saved, and notes like “best red color” or “slow bolting.”
6. Testing Seed Viability
To check viability:
Place 10 seeds on a moist paper towel in a sealed plastic bag.
Keep at 70–75°F (21–24°C) for 5–7 days.
Count germinated seeds:
8–10 = excellent
6–7 = moderate
<6 = resave seed next season.
7. Preventing Cross-Pollination
Although self-pollinating, Dragon’s Fire can still cross with other arugula varieties. For genetic purity:
Isolate plants by 800 feet–¼ mile.
Use mesh or row covers during bloom if growing multiple arugulas.
Save seed from bagged, self-pollinated plants for maximum fidelity.
8. Record Keeping and Documentation
Record observations on:
Leaf color and red vein intensity
Heat tolerance and bolt timing
Flowering date and seed yield
Germination results and storage details
These records help refine your local-adapted strain season after season.
9. Organic Tips for Success
Practice 2–3 year crop rotation away from other Brassicas.
Compost pods and stems after seed extraction.
Encourage native pollinators for balanced ecology.
Avoid synthetic fungicides or seed coatings.
Re-save seed every few years to maintain vigor and purity.
Uses and Benefits — Dragon’s Fire Arugula
Culinary Uses
Dragon’s Fire Arugula lives up to its name with bold flavor and fiery character. Its deep red veins and green leaves bring both visual drama and spice to the kitchen. The flavor is sharper and richer than standard arugula, offering a perfect balance of peppery heat and earthy undertones.
General Preparation Methods
Fresh Eating: Adds a lively bite and splash of color to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Its intensity pairs beautifully with sweet dressings or creamy cheeses.
Cooking: When lightly wilted, its sharpness mellows into a nutty, smoky flavor ideal for pastas, sautés, and omelets.
Pesto & Sauces: Blend with olive oil, lemon, and nuts for a peppery red-veined pesto.
Garnishing: A handful of fresh leaves adds elegance and heat to pizzas, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats.
Nutritional Benefits
Dragon’s Fire Arugula combines beauty and nutrition in equal measure.
Vitamins: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K for healthy skin, immune support, and bone strength.
Minerals: Supplies calcium, potassium, and iron for muscle, heart, and blood health.
Antioxidants: Red pigmentation reflects anthocyanins—compounds linked to anti-inflammatory and cell-protective effects.
Digestive Health: Naturally rich in glucosinolates that promote digestion and support detoxification.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Dragon’s Fire is a visually stunning, open-pollinated variety developed for flavor, vigor, and color retention.
Dual-Purpose Crop: Serves as both a gourmet green and an ornamental edible.
High Market Appeal: A favorite of chefs and market growers for its visual appeal and bold taste.
Fast Growth: Matures quickly and offers multiple cuttings per season.
Everyday Benefits and Kitchen Versatility
Adds instant heat and color to salads and sandwiches.
Pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables and soft cheeses.
Complements sweet and smoky flavors such as honey-glazed nuts or grilled meats.
Retains its striking color even when cooked lightly.
Tip: Harvest early in the day for tender leaves and optimal flavor—older leaves can develop extra bite.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Dragon’s Fire brings energy and function to every garden space.
Pollinator Friendly: Its small white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
Soil Health: Dense foliage shades soil and prevents moisture loss.
Companion Planting: Deters aphids and flea beetles when grown near lettuces or carrots.
Sustainable Growth: Low-maintenance and ideal for continuous harvest systems.
Dragon’s Fire Arugula embodies strength and vitality—flavor with purpose, beauty with bite.
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Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
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We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
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Alliance of Native Seedkeepers
Arugula Seeds - Dragon's Fire
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
Introducing the vibrant and spicy Arugula - Dragon's Fire, a standout choice for any culinary enthusiast seeking to add a peppery kick to their dishes. This unique arugula variety is known for its strikingly deep green leaves that mature to reveal a fiery red veining, creating a stunning visual contrast. With a growth habit that reaches up to 12 inches in height, Dragon's Fire is as eye-catching in the garden as it is on the plate.
Dragon's Fire arugula boasts a quick maturity rate, often ready for harvest in as little as 30 days. Its leaves are tender yet robust, offering a crisp texture and a bold, nutty flavor with a hint of spice that intensifies as the plant matures. Ideal for cool-season planting, this arugula thrives in well-drained soil under full sun, rewarding gardeners with continuous harvests throughout the season.
In the kitchen, Dragon's Fire arugula is a versatile ingredient, perfect for adding a zesty punch to salads, sandwiches, and gourmet pizzas. Its distinct flavor profile pairs beautifully with citrus and creamy dressings, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Embrace the spicy allure of Dragon's Fire and elevate your culinary creations with this exceptional arugula variety.
